वेपथुश्च शरीरे मे रोमहर्षश्च जायते || 29||
vepathuś ca śarīre meroma-harṣaś ca jāyategāṇḍīvaṁ sraṁsate hastāttvak caiva paridahyate
Translation
I am unable even to stand steady; and my mind seems to be confused; and I see adverse omens, O Kesava!
Word Meanings
vepathuḥ — trembling of the body ca — also śarīre — on the body me — my roma-harṣaḥ — standing of hair on end ca — also jāyate — is taking place gāṇḍīvam — the bow of Arjuna sraṁsate — is slipping hastāt — from the hand tvak — skin ca — also eva — certainly paridahyate — is burning
Understanding the Verse
In Bhagavad Gita Chapter 1, Verse 29, Arjuna describes the physical and emotional symptoms of his inner turmoil as he prepares to engage in battle against his own kinsmen. He is so overwhelmed by the prospect of killing his relatives that his body begins to tremble, his hair stands on end, and he feels an intense burning sensation on his skin. Arjuna’s once unwavering confidence is replaced by a sense of dread and confusion. Arjuna addresses Krishna as Kesava, the one who destroyed the demon Keshi, acknowledging Krishna’s supreme power. However, in this moment of vulnerability, Arjuna feels helpless and unable to even hold his bow, Gāṇḍīva—a weapon that symbolizes his great strength and warrior status. The bow is slipping from his hands, and he is gripped by superstitions and ill omens, which cloud his judgment and judgment of the situation. Arjuna’s symptoms—trembling, loss of strength, and confusion—indicate the emotional and psychological conflict he is experiencing. He cannot comprehend how he can partake in a battle that will result in the death of so many of his loved ones. His attachment to his family is so profound that it clouds his warrior’s sense of duty. His belief in bad omens further adds to his reluctance, and he begins to question the righteousness of the war itself. This verse captures the depth of Arjuna’s crisis—torn between his duty as a warrior (Kshatriya) and his emotional attachment to his kin. The verse sets the stage for the profound teachings of Lord Krishna, who will soon address Arjuna’s fears and confusion and guide him toward a higher understanding of his purpose and duty.
